Running Back – Oklahoma

5’9, 204 lbs

Strengths

Eric Gray is an underrated running back in this 2023 rookie class, coming out of Oklahoma. In 2022, Gray rushed for nearly double (1,366 yards) than he did his previous season high (772). Additionally, he hit the weight room to change what many scouts and analysts have thought of him.

Over these past two seasons, Gray has run with more of an authority that is versed in maintaining momentum during contact, via his low pad levels and fantastic leg drive. He has shown to have some quality receiving chops which will be a dimension that keeps him on NFL rosters, as someone who can fill in on 3^rd downs if needed. Furthermore, he does well setting the spacing from defenders at the second level, maximizing the leverage of his blockers in the open field. He is decent with pass protection, but not amazing. With his aggressiveness and willingness, he has a great base that teams will want to coach technique to on pass protection.

Weaknesses

His biggest weakness is going to be his speed. We’ll see exactly where he measures in at the NFL Combine. That being said, don’t be shocked if his stock drops a bit due to his performance at the Combine. Overall, he’s probably a future committee back at best.

Another knock on Gray will be his age as he’ll turn 24 during his first NFL season. His long speed isn’t anything to write home about either. Additionally, his vision for cutback lanes, if the designed hole isn’t there, might as well be invisible. Finally, he positions himself closer to the line which can hinder his ability to recognize holes in the line and reduce ideal angles of attack.

NFL Fit and Draft Capital

When it comes to Gray, he’ll fall further down the draft board than most want to admit. He’ll be a middle to late Day 3 player in the NFL Draft. His projected upside is a 2^nd running back in a committee backfield.

Gray’s age has him likely not getting a second contract of significance as he’ll already be turning 28 at that time. Gray should be a fourth round pick in your upcoming dynasty rookie drafts, that you could try and sell for a future second round pick the moment he has a brief week or two of production.

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